Solar Power Generated Atop Navy Carport
The U.S. Navy has deployed the largest federal solar photovoltaic system in the nation on a carport at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego.
The installation includes two contiguous solar arrays, covering a half-mile long parking structure that serves U.S. Navy personnel. In addition to providing shade for parked cars, the system generates enough energy during the day to power more than 935 homes.
The 750 kilowatt (kW) solar electric system will reduce the base’s demand on California’s power grid, and improve air quality by avoiding the emission of thousands of tons of nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide emissions.
“The deployment of solar power at Navy Region Southwest demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to using energy management practices that reduce energy consumption and control costs,” said Commander Pat Rios, the base’s public works officer. “Using clean generation is very consistent with our base’s mission of leveraging superior operational expertise and technologies.”
The 750 kW solar electric system was implemented as part of an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) project developed by NORESCO. The photovoltaic system was designed, manufactured and installed by PowerLight Corporation. The photovoltaic system will produce about 1,244,000 kWh per year and is expected to save over $228,000 in annual operating costs by avoiding purchases of expensive peak electricity.
“Solar power proved to be the ideal energy solution for Naval Base Coronado,” said Lieutenant Commander Wade Wilhelm, Navy Region Southwest utilities program manager. “The photovoltaic system combines the environmental benefits of solar with the ability to provide on site power that serves to reduce our vulnerability to disruptions of the power grid.”
The energy project was made possible through the Department of Energy’s Western Region Super ESPC, developed and executed by the Navy’s ESPC team comprised of the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center and the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Contracts Office.
“Installing solar photovoltaics at governmental agencies and private corporations is a sound, sensible way for us to use distributed energy resources to meet our renewable energy goals as well as reduce operating costs,” noted Beth Shearer, director of the Federal Energy Management Program. “In addition, deploying these technologies assures our energy independence and national security.”
